I recently corresponded with an American Soldier stationed in Afghanistan. The following is a brief interview that provides insight to the state of affairs.

Q) How long have you been stationed in Afghanistan?
Deployed to Afghanistan in May 2007 from Vicenza Italy with the 173d Airborne Brigade Combat Team.

Q) What are the conditions you face every day?
Contrary to popular belief, the weather is not very different from that of a northeastern state in America (well, the summer is much, much hotter, but the winter is also quite frigid). We conduct patrols and leaders engagements with elders of villages nearby as well as hand out humanitarian aid to their villages, consisting of anything from beans and rice to coats and shoes. Our “off time” consists primarily of improving our personal living spaces and shared areas on the FOB (forward operating base)

Q) What is your biggest frustration in regard to the “War on Terror”?
That Americans are still regarded as bullies. I understand that the common perception is that we stick our noses where they don’t belong, and before being here I would have at least entertained and heard the argument being posed. Now, however, I have to wonder the basis. Yes, we came to these countries toting weapons, but there are many, MANY people here who would like nothing more than to see every last American dead. Being armed is a preventative measure. I’ve spent more time handing out food, clothes, and various other things to locals, or being in a security position protecting a governmental meeting, than I have even firing my weapon.

Q) What is your biggest frustration with American media outlets?
The thorough lack of coverage and dedicated reporting that troops deployed to Afghanistan receive. Aside from an obituary, even the hometown paper of a soldier deployed here has little to no mention of the austere conditions we face daily.

Q) In your opinion, has the presence of American Troops made any difference in the lives of the Afghanistan people?
Yes, in many ways I feel it has. In my opinion, though, many of the differences I see do not coincide with what we are here to do. Yes, the government is (slowly) gaining influence and ability, and the Afghan Army has learned a lot from us, but the general population seems to have fallen into an ethical decline because of us. The people I’ve encountered will beg the shirt off of your back without a seconds hesitation, and are completely shameless in as much.

Q) What do you feel is the most important thing for Americans to know about the war in Afghanistan?
That it still exists. I’ve seen and heard of too many good men losing their lives in this country to sit idly by while our presence here is ignored.